2020 Citroen C5 1.5L Diesel · B26 OJB

The Citroën C5’s most recent MOT test on 2026-03-14 confirms it remains roadworthy, with no defects recorded across the past three annual tests. This suggests a stable maintenance pattern, though the February 2024 failure—despite passing the preceding test just one day earlier—stands out as an anomaly rather than a trend. The absence of recurring advisories or defects in the last three passes implies no systematic neglect of critical components, but the brief failure window warrants scrutiny of why the vehicle was retested so quickly. The lack of advisories in recent tests also indicates no deferred issues were carried over, which is a positive sign for long-term reliability. The recorded mileage of 37,918 miles over six years equates to approximately 6,320 miles annually, a rate consistent with typical usage for this age. There are no obvious gaps in service intervals or sudden spikes in mileage between tests, though the 2024 retest on 2024-04-02—just one day after a failure—suggests either a rushed correction or a minor oversight in the initial inspection. The vehicle’s low mileage for its age could imply lighter use or prolonged periods off the road, which may have mitigated some wear, but it also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been stored under optimal conditions, potentially accelerating issues like battery degradation or suspension corrosion. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an inspection of the suspension components, particularly the rear suspension bushes and coil springs, as these are common wear items on this model. The brief 2024 failure, though unexplained, could hint at a latent issue with brake binding or caliper seizure, so the rear brake system—including discs, pads, and hydraulic lines—should be thoroughly checked for uneven wear or corrosion. Structural integrity is another consideration; the C5 is prone to rust in wheel arches and sills, so a close examination of these areas is essential. Finally, the battery and electrical connections should be assessed, as low mileage can lead to sulphation or terminal corrosion if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods.